Do I Have to Wear a Helmet on My Motorcycle in South Carolina?

Motorcycles can be a source of fun and excitement for thrill seekers and casual cruisers alike. In South Carolina, it is important to note that you MUST wear a helmet if you are under the age of 21. For riders who are a little bit older though, it isn’t required. So, the short answer is no.

As a personal injury attorney, I have seen my fair share of injuries from motorcycles, and 9 times out of 10 the injuries are very serious.  That said, I firmly believe it’s imperative that motorcyclists of all ages wear a helmet.

The MAIDS report (2009) says in a study of motorcycle accidents “…67% of all cases, the helmet was capable of preventing or reducing the head injury sustained by the rider”

Here are some quick statistics from the CDC about wearing motorcycle helmets.
   •  Helmets saved an estimated 1,630 lives and $2.8 billion in economic costs in 2013.
   •  The United States could have saved an additional $1.1 billion in 2013 if all motorcyclists had worn helmets.1
   •  Helmets reduce the risk of death by 37%
   •  Helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69%

Common injuries while motorcycling without a helmet include:
   •  Concussions
   •  Facial fractures
   •  Brain injuries
   •  Spinal cord damage
   •  Compound bone fractures
   •  Road rash and severe lacerations
   •  Burns
   •  Organ damage and internal bleeding
   •  Death

Please, practice safe driving on your motorcycle and by all means, WEAR A HELMET!